J.J. Abrams And George Lucas Haven't Gotten Around To That 'Star Wars: Episode VII' Discussion Yet

Back when Star Wars: Episode VII was announced, fans were assured (for better or for worse) that George Lucas would be staying on as a “creative consultant” for the film. So, now that J.J. Abrams has been installed as director of the flick, just how much creative consulting are he and Lucas doing?

“I have not spoken to J.J. He’s been busy with Star Trek, and I’m sure that he’ll let me know when he’s got some questions. So, you know, that’s all going well. Kathy tells me it’s working out great.”

I don’t think I’m stating anything too radical or controversial by saying, yeah, this is probably for the best. If Lucas just wants to sit in his rocking chair on his front porch, field the occasional query about Ewok anatomy or whatever and otherwise stay hands off, that’s fine by me.

“I don’t think I’m stating anything too radical or controversial by saying, yeah, this is probably for the best. If Lucas just wants to sit in his rocking chair on his front porch, field the occasional query about Ewok anatomy or whatever and otherwise stay hands off, that’s fine by me.”

This is the best news I’ve heard all day. However, I don’t think the script is done yet and I’m sure once that happens he’ll swoop in and be like, “You know I think Luke should end up being Chewbacca’s Uncle In Law” or something.

Just know that George doesn’t have to care about this stuff any more, but my hunch is that ‘the company’ wants to make it seem like he’s involved because, believe it or not, more people want that (than do not want that.) This is Disney’s baby now. Internally at Lucasfilm, this is very, very clear.

The real story here is that JJ was working exclusively on Star Trek right up to the release date. They’re trying to get Star Wars VII out in 2015. I’m not sure how they’re going to do that, especially since the company as a whole is only a bit over half the size it was prior to April, as mentioned the script isn’t done, and ILM will have to produce their normal amount of work plus Star Wars, with less staff. If the release date doesn’t slip, something else will. High potential for it to be a fiasco.

It’ll be interesting (for those still employed there) to see who wins the editorial battles, JJ or Disney. Wouldn’t be surprised if it’s an Alan Smithee production by the time it comes out, but maybe JJ will surprise us.